dave, the whole kernel of the matter , this is a music discussion forum, clips about music are the only reason i come here.
this site would be better in my opinion if people discussed music only, i can go to facebook[a relatively well moderated site and can read garbage about peoples breakfasts]a site where there is relatively little abuse.
if every member of this site emulated members such as string singer or mcgrath of harlow, this place would be better, it is down to each individual member to look at their posts subjectively and not to have a knee jerk reaction, and take time before they post.
this site needs up dating, the business of having to create a link is outdated.
dave there is a difference between bullying and criticism, and the right to disagree here is an example.

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Subject: RE: my son david dick miles 5 string banjo
From: Jim Carroll - PM
Date: 02 Apr 13 - 09:22 AM

Apologies Dick - though there are considerable similarities in both.
Jim Carroll
BTW - enjoyed the singing but I feel it doesn't need the banjo.
that is a perfect example of acceptable criticism, telling someone that the less said about their cd is not, it breaks the mudcat rules it is at least impolite, telling someone to fuck off is not, telling someone they will never play in a folk club in the south east is not, telling someone that they will play to smaller audiences is not acceptable., bring in a smear campaign about something that happened on another forum IS NOT ACCEPTABLE
it is up to members to discipline them selves and police them selves